Postdoc (f/m/d) in Time-Resolved Electron Microscopy for Light-Energy Conversion in Nanoscale Materials
Reference No.: PS 2025/8
The Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) is seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the Department of Atomic-Scale Dynamics in Light-Energy Conversion. Our department investigates fundamental processes of light-energy conversion at the atomic scale. We utilize state-of-the-art spectroscopic and microscopic methods to study the dynamics of charge carriers, excitons, and phonons in novel materials for photovoltaics and photocatalysis. Our goal is to gain a deeper understanding of these processes to develop more efficient and sustainable energy conversion systems. As a successful candidate you will contribute to ongoing projects in time-resolved/ultrafast electron microscopy, focusing on the investigation of light-induced restructuring dynamics in nanoscale materials. The ultrafast electron microscopy instrument is currently under development in collaboration with the group of Prof. Christoph Koch at the Humboldt University. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of time-resolved imaging techniques and contribute to advancements in renewable energy technologies.For more information about our research and facilities, please visit https://www.helmholtz-berlin.de/forschung/oe/ps/atomic-scale-dynamics/index_en.html
Your tasks
- Develop and implement ultrafast/time-resolved electron microscopy experiments to study atomic-scale dynamics in energy materials.
- Optimize and maintain the ultrafast electron microscope setup.
- Analyse complex datasets using advanced image processing and data analysis techniques.
- Sample preparation and characterisation using in-house facilities.
- Co-supervision of Master and doctoral students.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of physicists, chemists, and materials scientists.
- Publish research findings in high-impact scientific journals and present at international conferences.
- Contribute to grant writing and project management activities.
Your Profile
- Master's degree or diploma and excellent PhD in Physical Chemistry, Chemical Physics, Physics, Materials Science, or a comparable discipline
- Strong background in electron microscopy, preferably with experience in ultrafast techniques
- Expertise in optics, laser systems, and time-resolved spectroscopy
- Proficiency in data analysis and scientific programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
- Expertise in the field of charge carrier dynamics in nanoscale materials, nanomaterial properties, and characterization
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
Your Benefits
- Access to state-of-the-art materials characterization facilities, including (ultrafast) electron microscopy facilities and a synchrotron (BESSY II)
- You will be part of an international, multifaceted research organization that provides access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and promotes networking and exchange within the Helmholtz Association and beyond.
- Career-enhancing networking opportunities and individual mentoring and support from the HZB Postdoc Office
- Opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative materials and technological solutions for a climate-neutral future in cooperation with leading international researchers
- Commitment to diversity and sustainability through an inclusive working environment, promotion of diversity sensitivity and implementation of sustainable and climate-neutral methods
- Attractive remuneration through payment according to Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD Bund)
- 30 days holiday/year
- Extensive additional benefits, such as company pension plan (VBL), subsidy for public transport (Deutschlandticket Job) and company sports programmes
- Good work-life balance through counselling services on family and career and flexible working time models: Flexitime, part-time, hybrid working
- And a team that is looking forward to meeting you!
Fixed term contract for 24 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund).
How to apply
To apply please submit your application including a CV, list of publications, brief statement of motivation and research interests, and contact information for three references.We look forward to receiving your application via our application management system by 20.07.2025. For reasons of data protection regulations, we are unfortunately unable to consider applications that reach us by any other means (such as email or mail) in the application process.
We very much want our workplace to be diverse, and welcome applications from people with different backgrounds. It is our mission to promote equal opportunities and to improve women’s representation in the workforce. We are therefore very interested in receiving applications from women. Where the qualifications are met, we will give preference to people with disabilities.
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